Sacred Hybrids Artist Statement

“Ron Fleming and I met sometime in the early 80's. His wife Patti and had become good friends playing bridge together. She and I immediately realized we had much more in common than a card game. Patti Fleming introduced me to Ron--what a truly amazing and unique couple they were. They were sweethearts to each other and to everyone else whose lives they touched. Their lives fascinated me. They were unbelievable artists and were also passionately involved with the restoration of the old city incinerator which they turned into their home. I remained a total fan of them both and always tried to make any exhibitions that they had in Tulsa. I watched with great honor as their work became international (see bio for details) and I felt privileged to be a part of their lives. In November of 2003 we lost Patti after a struggle with her health. She was so young and she and ron were so devoted to each other and their artwork. All of us who knew Patti still feel the loss.

In March of 2004 I had a show at Living Arts and Ron called and wanted me to walk him through it. It was then that he asked if i would be interested in collaborating. YES was the operative word. i was thrilled and excited beyond words. Ron had often collaborated with others, but I never had. I wasn't even sure i could do it--but it's been heaven. We feed off each other and fill in each other's gaps. Our experiences are so diverse and so complimentary at the same time. The way we work is that Ron either makes a piece that I ask for or he already has a piece that he thinks I could embellish. We also talk and "play" with some forms that he's never quite resolved. And if this weren't enough, we continue to learn new things to incorporate in the work. The exchange of ideas are so motivating and one piece leads to another idea--thus, the emerging hybrids. We then try out many of the finishes he and I have worked with in the past and combine them to make the work we plan to include in the show at Living Arts, opening on Dec. 2.

Tulsa has never seen the likes of what we have to offer the eye. Some would say a match made in heaven. I'd say a match made FROM heaven, as Patti is ALWAYS a part of everything Ron and I create.”